10 common causes of allergies in humans

As the
years run by, many humans are becoming allergic to one thing or the other due
to the presence of some common causes in our environment. Our bodies are bombarded with
unwanted substances from the air we breathe, water we drink and food we eat.
This makes the body to become constantly on high alert to defend itself from
whatsoever it sees as a possible threat. Below are 10 common causes of allergies in humans.

1. Your
overactive immune system

There are so many things that can trigger or cause
allergic reactions, for example your overactive immune system. For instance
when you body's immune system attack a usually harmless substance, such as
pollen, animal dander, or food. The reaction can range from mild to annoying
and to sudden and life-threatening. According to statistics, about 1 in every 5
people have allergies.

2. Pollen

It have been observed that pollens from trees, weeds
and grasses can serve as causes of seasonal allergies and hay fever. It
can lead to sneezing, stuffy or runny nose, itching and watery eyes etc, Try to
treat all these allergic reactions with over-the-counter drugs, prescription
drugs and allergy shots. To prevent the symptoms in general, try to stay
indoors on windy days when pollen counts are high and also learn to close your
windows to prevent pollen entry.

3. Animal dander

Animal
dander is an example of what can cause
allergies later in life. A reaction to proteins in an animal's saliva or in
oil glands in their skin might take up to two years or longer to become an
allergy. If your pet is the trigger, you may still be able to live with it. To
be on a safe side, make your bed room a pet-free zone, go for bare floors and
washable rugs instead of carpets, and bathe your pet regularly.

4. Dust mites

Dust
mites are tiny bugs that live in bedding, mattresses, upholstery, carpets, and
curtains. They feed on dead skin cells from people and pets, as well as pollen,
bacteria and fungi. They thrive in high humidity. To prevent or reduce the
menace of dust mites, use hypoallergenic pillows, cover mattresses, pillows and
box springs, and also wash your sheets weekly using hot water. Keep your house
free from dust-collecting items like stuffed animals, curtains and carpet.

5. Insect stings

A sting
or bite from an insect can cause
allergies to develop. It can lead to swelling or redness that may last up
to a week or more. You can also feel sick in your stomach, tired and have a low
fever. In rare cases, insect bites trigger a reaction that can be
life-threatening, called "Anaphylaxis". You will be needing
epinephrine if you are severely allergic to it. Your doctor may also recommend
allergy shots to prevent reactions.

6. Mold

Mold
thrives in an environment that has moisture. it can be found in damp places
such as basements or bathrooms, as well as in grass mulch. Since breathing in
or touching mold or mold spores can trigger an allergic reaction, avoid
activities that could cause its symptoms. Get air to flow into moist areas of
your rooms.

7. Food

Some
common food allergies are caused by
foods such as milk, eggs, shellfish and nuts. Within some minutes of consuming
the trigger foods, you can have trouble breathing and get hives, nausea,
vomiting, diarrhoea, and swelling around your mouth. If your reaction is
severe, you may need a shot of epinephrine.

8. Latex

Materials
made from latex such as gloves, condoms, and some other medical devices can
trigger a reaction ranging from itchy, red skin to anaphylaxis with trouble
breathing properly. Symptoms can include a rash or hives, eye irritation, runny
or itchy nose, sneezing and wheezing. If youare a medical personal and you are having a latex allergy, wear a
medical alert bracelet and carry an epinephrine kit when on duty.

9. Medication

Penicillin,
aspirin, am some other drugs can cause hives, itchy eyes, stuffiness and
swelling in your face, mouth and throat. If you noticed that you are allergic
to a particular drug, then try as much as possible not to take it. But if you
mistakenly do, your doctor could recommend treatment
for allergies such as anthistamines or steroids for mild symptoms. For
severe symptoms which can be life-threatening, you may be needing epinephrine.

10. Cockroaches

Cockroaches
are creepy insects, a protein in their droppings can cause a trigger. This
insect can be very tough to get rid of, especially in warm climate or if you
live in an apartment building where they can easily pass back and forth between
neighbouring houses. You can prevent cockroaches by using an insecticide spray,
keeping your kitchens clean, repairing cracks and holes in floors, walls and
windows.